Our Programmes

More about Writing, Editing and Publishing Your Novel

Do you have great ideas for a novel but have never had a chance to take those all-important first steps? Or maybe you’ve got started on writing that novel but are finding it difficult to continue – or don’t know how to end it? Perhaps you’ve already finished a draft and would like targeted feedback, or to learn what might happen next. We offer a course that will give you everything you need to take your novel to the next level, in a supportive, warm residential setting. This is perfect for writers at any stage of their writing journey, whether you’re just getting started or want to develop your skills and make your work more appealing to readers and publishers.

Hawkwood, a beautiful manor house set amongst gorgeous woodland, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the creative process. It offers a serene escape for writers looking for time, inspiration, and the support of tutors and your fellow course writers.

This course is exclusively tailored to you and your fellow participants, building on the particular areas you’ve highlighted in your pre-course questionnaires and materials. Each day will start with an in-depth masterclass, covering a specific aspect of crafting and developing a successful novel. For example, you might explore how to create an impactful opening using a range of exciting techniques including experimenting with tense, point-of-view and style. Or you might be learning more about the process of getting your novel in front of readers and publishers: perhaps you’ll want to see your work edited ‘live’, or to practice pitching your idea in a clear and concise way. Whatever stage you’re at, you’ll also receive a unique perspective into the publishing industry from seasoned professionals and guest speakers.

The week will feature one-to-one feedback from your tutors, whether you’re just getting started on your novel or putting on the finishing touches. On this course, your tutorials work for you: you’re free to choose the structure of these one-to-one sessions, whether in the form of a short, daily progress update, a longer examination of your work as a whole, including goal setting and next steps, or whatever works best!

This course builds in ample free-writing opportunities, when you can exercise your creativity and be inspired by this unique setting to make real headway on your novel and take away pages of useful progress. You will also learn the art of giving and receiving feedback amongst your fellow course writers. Even better – this retreat is fully catered, allowing you more time to spend on your writing.